Social Studies 20-2 Key Issue

SOCIAL STUDIES 20-2: Perspectives on Nationalism
Key Outcome: Students will understand, assess and respond to the complexities of nationalism.
Related Issues	General Outcomes
1. Should nation be the foundation of identity?	Students will explore the relationships among identity, nation and nationalism.
2. Should nations pursue national interest?	Students will understand impacts of nationalism, ultranationalism and the pursuit of national interest.
3. Should internationalism be pursued?	Students will assess impacts of the pursuit of internationalism in contemporary global affairs.
4. Should individuals and groups in Canada embrace a national identity?	Students will understand the complexities of nationalism within the Canadian context.

Overview

Students will examine historical and contemporary understandings of nationalism in Canada and the world. They will explore the origins of nationalism as well as the impacts of nationalism on individuals and communities in Canada and other locations. Examples of nationalism, ultranationalism, supranationalism and internationalism will be examined from multiple perspectives. Students will develop personal and civic responses to emergent issues related to nationalism.

Rationale

As perspectives on personal identity continue to evolve, so do understandings of nationalism and what it means to be a member of a collective, community, state and nation. This evolution is significant in the Canadian context as nationalism continues to shape visions of identity and nation. Understanding the significance of nationalism contributes to an appreciation and awareness of the interrelationships among nationalism, internationalism, citizenship and identity.